This upcoming weekend is another busy period for Penang – approximately 1.5 million people will be visiting for the annual Thaipusam celebrations! This includes Hindu devotees, locals and foreign tourists that will be visiting Penang from 4 to 6 February 2023.
Approximately 1.5 Million Visitors In Penang For The Thaipusam Weekend
According to Bernama, Penang will be expecting a big turnout of 1.5 million visitors for the upcoming 3-day Thaipusam weekend. Most people will be visiting to fulfil their vows during Thaipusam, especially since the festival was held on a small and moderate scale for the past 2 years due to the Covid outbreak.
Thaipusam falls on the weekend this year, while Monday will be a regional holiday. There is an expectation of devotees coming from abroad including Medan, Jakarta and Singapore in order to participate in the Penang procession.
The public is advised to act thoughtfully and responsibly to ensure the celebration goes smoothly.
The Golden Chariot Procession Will Begin At 6am On 4 February 2023
The golden chariot procession will start in the early morning at 6am on 4 February at Lebuh Queen. The procession will be arriving at the Thanneermalai Shree Balathandayuthapani Devasthanam Temple around Midnight at the earliest, depending on the traffic congestion.
Meanwhile, the procession of the silver chariot, bearing the idol of Lord Murugan, will begin at 7am at Nagarathar Kovil Vidu Temple, Lebuh Penang. This procession will reach the Waterfall Temple grounds around 2am.
According to New Straits Times, the celebrations will be expecting 30,000 kavadi bearers and hundreds of thousands of paal kudam (milk pot) bearers. Moreover, 120 panthal (makeshift stalls) will line the 2km stretch from Jalan Macalister to the Arulmigu Balathandayuthapani Devastanam Temple. There will also be 30 panthals along the chariot routes.
Happy Thaipusam And Stay Safe During The Celebrations!
Please remember to follow the rules and stay safe during the Thaipusam celebrations everyone! Happy Thaipusam!
Source: Bernama | New Straits Times
Featured Image: Malay Mail
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